Atletico Madrid are ready to meet Tottenham’s £22million asking price for right-back Kieran Trippier, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Italian newspaper claims that Atletico are also willing to offer Trippier, 28, a four-year deal worth £42,000-a-week.
It is understood that Napoli are interested in the England international but could switch their attention to Empoli right-back Giovanni Di Lorenzo amid Atletico’s willingness to sign the in-demand Tottenham ace.
Good move for Tottenham?
Trippier has not had an amazing season in North London after appearing 37 times in all competitions, especially when you consider how well he play for Tottenham last season and with England in the World Cup in Russia last summer.
It would not be bad business if Spurs were to pocket £22million for the ex-Burnley defender, but it might also be worth keeping him around and hoping that after a good rest over the upcoming summer, he can rediscover some of the form that he has previously shown for club and country.
Mauricio Pochettino faces a big decision over his right-backs in the summer because both Trippier and Serge Aurier have been disappointing this season.
If Pochettino was to let one of them go, then it should be Aurier, rather than Trippier.
This is Futbol rating 5/10
Likely to happen?
Atletico do appear to be in pole position to sign Trippier right now but the Sun has previously reported that he is also wanted by Manchester United and Everton.
Spurs would surely prefer to sell Trippier to a European club like Atletico but there are unlikely to be any decisions made until after the Champions League final against Liverpool on June 1.
This is Futbol rating 3/10